Kyle Tucker proves why Astros should extend him in dominating performance
In the face of criticism and annoyance from fans, the Houston Astros (5-6) pounded out 13 hits and a season-high-tying eight runs to earn a victory in their series opener against the Pittsburgh Pirates (6-4) on Monday.
The standout player for the game was Kyle Tucker, who supplied three RBI and two hits. Tucker's excellent contributions to the team are nothing new. The 2022 All-Star and Gold Glove winner is currently fifth in the league for RBI (11) and tied for eighth in home runs (three).
Despite the strong performance from Tucker, fans are more concerned about his uncertain contract situation with Houston.
Tucker is technically under contract with the Astros until 2025, but the mechanics of the deal that are not in writing pose complexity.
Tucker lost his arbitration case against the Astros in February, which left him in a sour state. If the duration of Tucker's contract is completed and no extension is agreed upon, Tucker could factor in the Astros' reduction of his salary that lost him millions of dollars when he is a free agent deciding upon offers. The likelihood of Tucker being enraged with his former team is low since they brought him his first career championship and started his career, but it could play a minor role in his hypothetical decision.
Tucker may also be motivated to play out the duration of his arbitration years and avoid an extension in hopes of maximizing his market value in free agency. Once again, the likelihood of this is low since Tucker has previously shared his immense pleasure with the Astros organization, but it is a potential factor to consider.
If Tucker's past public comments about the Astros are an accurate reflection of his personal situation with the team, then the most likely occurrence is for him to sign a long-term, team-friendly extension that keeps him as a member of the Astros for the greater part of his remaining years in the MLB. As we have learned in the past, however, there is often more going on behind the scenes in professional sports franchises than fans are aware of, but the obvious is not always incorrect.
Undoubtedly, Tucker's contract situation will be an interesting storyline to follow as time progresses. As of right now, Astros fans can only sit tight, remain patient and watch their team defend a World Series title.
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